Temple Fade Haircut Styles: Everything You Need to Know

The temple fade — also called a temp fade or Brooklyn fade — is one of the most popular and versatile haircut styles for men. It's subtle enough to work in professional settings but sharp enough to make a statement.

Here's everything you need to know about the temple fade: what it is, how it works, what styles it pairs with, and how to ask for it at the barbershop.

What Is a Temple Fade?

A temple fade is a targeted fade that focuses on the temples and hairline — the area around the forehead and above the ears. Unlike a full fade that goes all the way around the head, a temple fade creates a defined, clean hairline at the temples while leaving more length on the sides and back.

The result is a cut that looks clean and defined without the full commitment of a skin fade. It's particularly effective at sharpening the hairline and creating a polished look with minimal length removal.

Temple Fade vs Regular Fade: What's the Difference?

A regular fade (low, mid, or high) goes all the way around the head — sides and back. A temple fade is more targeted — it focuses specifically on the temple area and hairline, creating definition at the front without necessarily fading the entire sides and back.

Think of a temple fade as a precision detail cut rather than a full fade. It's often used in combination with other cuts to add definition to the hairline.

Styles That Pair Well With a Temple Fade

The temple fade is incredibly versatile. Here are the styles it pairs with best:

• Textured crop: A textured crop with a temple fade is one of the most popular modern combinations. Clean hairline, textured top — effortless and sharp.
• Curly hair: A temple fade with natural curls creates a defined, polished look that works with the texture rather than against it.
• Afro: A temple fade with a shaped afro is a classic combination — the fade defines the shape while the afro provides the volume.
• Waves: Temple fades are popular with 360 waves — the fade defines the hairline and complements the wave pattern.
• Side part: A classic side part with a temple fade adds modern definition to a traditional style.
• Slick back: A slick back with a temple fade keeps the style looking sharp and intentional.

How to Ask for a Temple Fade

Walk into the barbershop and say: "I'd like a temple fade — clean up the hairline at the temples and fade it down." If you have a specific style in mind (textured crop, curly cut, etc.), describe the top as well.

Bring a reference photo if you have one — it's the easiest way to communicate exactly what you want. Temple fades can vary in how tight or subtle they are, so a photo eliminates any guesswork.

Maintenance

Temple fades are relatively low maintenance compared to full skin fades. The hairline area grows out more slowly than the sides, so you can typically go 3–4 weeks between visits while still looking clean.

For the sharpest look, a touch-up every 2–3 weeks is ideal — especially if you have a fast-growing hairline.